Wed Sep 18 22:27:00 UTC 2024: ## UCCS Launches First-of-its-Kind Center for the Study of Evangelicalism

Colorado Springs, CO – The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) has established the nation’s first Center for the Study of Evangelicalism, aiming to delve into the complex relationship between this branch of Protestantism and American politics.

The center, founded by professors Jeffrey Scholes, Paul Harvey, and George Bayuga, is particularly timely given the significant role evangelical voters have played in recent elections, notably their overwhelming support for former President Donald Trump.

“We’re excited, as we hope it will be the hub for studies in this area in the world,” said Scholes, director of the center and the philosophy department.

The center’s first public event will feature Tim Alberta, a staff writer at The Atlantic and former chief political correspondent for Politico. Alberta, the son of an evangelical pastor, will speak on “Evangelicalism, Politics and the Future” at the Ent Center for the Arts on October 2nd.

While the center will explore the historical and theological aspects of evangelicalism, it will also investigate its influence on American politics, particularly its relationship with the Republican Party and the significant voting bloc it represents.

“It’s been a pretty reliable voting bloc for the past 50 years,” noted Scholes.

The center’s research will be multidisciplinary, drawing upon sociology, anthropology, economics, literature, history, theology, and religious studies.

“We are coming at this as scholars at a state university to open inquiry about what evangelicalism is and what does it mean to be an evangelical, and we’ll involve the community,” Scholes said.

The center has received a $300,000 grant from the Henry Luce Foundation to support its initial endeavors, which include studying the evangelical community in Colorado Springs, producing a documentary on the city’s role in the movement, and publishing a book on its findings.

While the center aims to provide a neutral platform for research, it recognizes the impact of evangelicalism on American society and politics, particularly the evolving relationship between younger generations and their faith in a changing cultural landscape.

“Today’s generations, from Gen Z to millennials, have been confused about why their faith is intertwined with a political persuasion that may not represent their moral values,” said Scholes.

The center is currently seeking additional funding to ensure its long-term sustainability.

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